If you’re on the hunt for an irresistible snack that combines the nostalgic taste of Rice Krispie treats with a decadent caramel twist, look no further than Caramel Crispy Rice Treats. This recipe elevates the classic Rice Krispie treat by infusing it with gooey caramel, offering a rich and buttery flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party or simply enjoying a treat at home, these delicious bites are sure to be a hit with everyone!
What Makes Caramel Crispy Rice Treats Special?
Caramel Crispy Rice Treats are the perfect fusion of crispy rice cereal and sweet, creamy caramel. This recipe is versatile and easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, this delightful snack can be made with or without marshmallows, depending on your preference.
Rice Krispie treats with caramel condensed milk are also ideal for those who want a rich, chewy texture while incorporating an extra layer of flavor. This recipe also offers a few creative variations, such as Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats with caramel condensed milk and Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats sweetened with condensed milk, for those who like a bit of salty-sweet action.
Ingredients
To make the most delicious Caramel Crispy Rice Treats, gather the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 oz marshmallows (optional, for those who want the classic gooey texture)
For Variations:
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (for Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats with caramel condensed milk)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preparing a 9×13 inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper or grease it lightly with butter to ensure your treats don’t stick.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Base
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add in the sweetened condensed milk and stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined. Then, add the caramel sauce and mix until the entire mixture is thick, smooth, and caramel-like.
Step 3: Mix in the Cereal
Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in your crispy rice cereal. If you’re opting for the marshmallow version, add the marshmallows at this point, stirring until they are melted and evenly distributed within the mixture. For those making Caramel Crispy Rice Treats without marshmallows, skip this step and focus on ensuring that the cereal is fully coated in the caramel sauce.
Step 4: Press into Pan
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, press the mixture down evenly until it is smooth and compact.
Step 5: Let It Set
Allow your Caramel Crispy Rice Treats to cool and set at room temperature for about an hour. You can also place them in the fridge for a faster set time.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once fully set, slice the treats into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Tips:
- For Perfectly Even Slices: Use a sharp knife and lightly butter it before cutting to ensure clean, even squares.
- Avoid Sticking: If you find the mixture sticking to your spoon or hands, use a bit of cooking spray or butter to coat your utensils.
Variations:
- Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: Sprinkle sea salt over the top of your treats before they cool for a delicious sweet-and-salty flavor.
- Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats with Caramel Condensed Milk: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the caramel mixture for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Caramel Crispy Rice Treats without Marshmallows: If you prefer a firmer texture, simply omit the marshmallows from the recipe. The treats will still have plenty of caramel goodness!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Please note that nutritional values may vary based on the ingredients used and portion sizes.
Caramel Crispy Rice Treats are the perfect combination of sweet, crispy, and chewy. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you choose to make the classic version, Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats with sweetened condensed milk, or add a chocolate twist, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Feel free to get creative and explore the different variations mentioned, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious snack ideas on our website easycrispyrecipes.com, including Crunchy Corn Chip Tacos, Fried Cinnamon Sweet Potato Chips, and Roasted Thousand Island Potatoes.